The Minister of State for the Federal Capital Territory, Dr. Ramatu Aliyu, has commenced the second round of polio vaccination in the territory, according to Punch.
According to the minister, the exercise is part of the administration’s response to contain poliovirus in the nation’s capital. The minister was said to have performed the exercise at the Area 2 Primary Healthcare Centre, Garki, Abuja and two newborn babies were vaccinated by her as the chief vaccinator.
In addition, she encouraged mothers to take the vaccination seriously and ensure proper hygiene.
She said, “We urge all mothers to come out and vaccinate their babies because we want polio to be kicked out or eradicated, and we want the status to be maintained. I know mothers are the most excited people in the world, especially with a newborn baby. However, follow all the processes as directed by medical personnel.
“Also be reminded that the COVID-19 pandemic is not yet over, therefore keep observing all the protocols by wearing your face mask and keeping physical distancing. I am happy you are all wearing your face mask, keep doing that even in marketplaces.”
Furthermore, the minister assured stakeholders that the FCT would participate in the October National Immunisation Plus Days when children who are five years old and below in the FCT and the 36 states of
the federation would have another opportunity to be vaccinated.
The acting Secretary of FCT Primary Health Care Board, Dr. Iwot Ndaeyo, however, said the first round was conducted in the five area councils of Abaji, Abuja Municipal, Bwari, Kuje and Kwali last month, August 2021 and all are due for the second round in September.
In addition, he stated that the first-round report showed Abaji, Kwali and Bwari performing well and passing the end process evaluation at the first test, while Abuja Municipal and Kuje area councils had to undertake mop-up exercises to meet the required coverage and eventually passed the end process test.
